The worst kept secret on Fort Myers Beach was confirmed Wednesday. The owners of Doc Ford’s and The Dixie Fish Company have officially announced they are the new owners of Bonita Bill’s. The restaurant is located under the Matanzas Pass Bridge before you come over to the beach
The new owners plan to change the name to The Bonita Fish Company. Renovations are set to begin immediately, with the restaurant temporarily closing while the work is being done. Bonita Fish Company is expected to open in early to mid-2025.
“We’re excited to embrace the tradition and history of this exceptional property and its reputation of fresh fish and seafood, great food and drinks and unbeatable views,” said Joe Harrity, partner with HM Restaurant Group. “So many people have fond memories of Bonita Bill’s and one of our goals with Bonita Fish Company is to preserve that, and continue to be a go-to place for tourists and locals alike.”
The company says it will complement Dixie Fish Company by “offering a fresh, coastal-inspired menu, featuring local seafood, creative dishes, and a continuation of the warm hospitality for which the group is known.”
“Our goal is to create a place that pays tribute to the cherished memories made at Bonita Bill’s and also invites new generations to create their own,” said Harrity. “Bonita Fish Company will feature the same gracious hospitality and exceptional food Doc Ford’s and Dixie Fish Company are known for.”
The sale on the 4 properties in the deal that includes the restaurant closed this week and the previous owners of the restaurant closed their doors on January 5th. The Semmer family owned Bonita Bill’s for decades. The sale price was $5.5 million.